How to Use BTS7960: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The BTS7960 is a high-current H-bridge motor driver designed to control DC motors and other inductive loads. It is capable of handling high currents, making it ideal for applications requiring robust and reliable motor control. The component integrates advanced protection features, including overcurrent, overtemperature, and undervoltage safeguards, ensuring durability and safety in demanding environments.

• Robotics and automation systems
• Electric vehicle motor control
• Conveyor belt systems
• Industrial machinery
• Remote-controlled vehicles
• High-power motorized projects

The BTS7960 is a versatile motor driver with the following key specifications:

The BTS7960 module typically comes with the following pin layout:

1. Power Connections:

   • Connect the motor power supply to the V+ pin and the ground of the power supply to the GND (Power) pin.
   • Provide 5V to the VCC pin for the logic circuit and connect its ground to the GND pin.

2. Motor Connections:

   • Connect the motor terminals to OUT1 and OUT2.

3. Control Connections:

   • Use the RPWM and LPWM pins to control the motor's speed and direction via PWM signals.
   • Enable the H-bridge by setting R_EN and L_EN to HIGH.

4. PWM Control:

   • To rotate the motor in one direction, provide a PWM signal to RPWM and set LPWM to LOW.
   • To rotate the motor in the opposite direction, provide a PWM signal to LPWM and set RPWM to LOW.

• Ensure the motor power supply voltage does not exceed 27V.
• Use a heatsink or active cooling if operating at high currents for extended periods.
• Avoid connecting the motor directly to the logic power supply to prevent damage.
• Use appropriate decoupling capacitors near the power supply pins to reduce noise.
• Verify that the PWM frequency is within the supported range (up to 25kHz).

Below is an example Arduino sketch to control a motor using the BTS7960:

// Define control pins for the BTS7960
const int RPWM = 5;  // PWM pin for forward rotation
const int LPWM = 6;  // PWM pin for reverse rotation
const int R_EN = 7;  // Enable pin for right side
const int L_EN = 8;  // Enable pin for left side

void setup() {
  // Set control pins as outputs
  pinMode(RPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(LPWM, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(R_EN, OUTPUT);
  pinMode(L_EN, OUTPUT);

  // Enable both sides of the H-bridge
  digitalWrite(R_EN, HIGH);
  digitalWrite(L_EN, HIGH);
}

void loop() {
  // Rotate motor forward at 50% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 128);  // 50% duty cycle
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);    // No reverse signal
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(1000);             // Pause for 1 second

  // Rotate motor in reverse at 75% speed
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);    // No forward signal
  analogWrite(LPWM, 192);  // 75% duty cycle
  delay(2000);             // Run for 2 seconds

  // Stop the motor
  analogWrite(RPWM, 0);
  analogWrite(LPWM, 0);
  delay(1000);             // Pause for 1 second
}

1. Motor Does Not Rotate:

   • Verify that the power supply is connected and providing the correct voltage.
   • Ensure the R_EN and L_EN pins are set to HIGH.
   • Check the PWM signal connections and ensure the duty cycle is not zero.

2. Motor Rotates in the Wrong Direction:

   • Swap the connections of the motor terminals at OUT1 and OUT2.
   • Verify the PWM signals on RPWM and LPWM are configured correctly.

3. Overheating:

   • Ensure the module is not exceeding its maximum current rating.
   • Use a heatsink or active cooling to dissipate heat.

4. No Response from the Module:

   • Check all connections for loose wires or incorrect wiring.
   • Verify that the logic power supply (5V) is stable and connected to VCC.

Q: Can the BTS7960 drive stepper motors?
A: No, the BTS7960 is designed for DC motors and other inductive loads. Stepper motors require a dedicated stepper driver.

Q: What is the purpose of the IS pin?
A: The IS pin provides a current sensing output, which can be used to monitor the motor's current draw.

Q: Can I use the BTS7960 with a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the logic inputs are compatible with both 3.3V and 5V signals.

Q: What happens if the motor draws more than 43A?
A: The BTS7960 has built-in overcurrent protection, which will shut down the module to prevent damage.